by Karina Reddy

A punt and a prep

Headed off for a sunny weekend getaway in Cambridge? Wondering what to wear in the ancient collegiate city? Never fear! Here we have everything you need to get your preppy Cambridge look started! The key to any English getaway is layers, so it’s always smart to plan for any weather. Channel the old-school, preppy vibes of the university city and shape your Cambridge look around a statement piece: a classic satchel to throw over your shoulder from the Cambridge Satchel Company! Remember the favored form of transport here is a bike, so be sure to dress accordingly. Check out our essential pieces for a day out on the town that could come straight from True Prep!

The Bag

Started by a Cambridge mom in 2008, the Cambridge Satchel Company’s classic vintage look makes it seem like they’ve been around since at least 1908. They’ve grown a lot in the last 9 years, but their range of 100% leather bags perfectly capture Cambridge’s culture: collegiate, classic, and casual!

The Blazer

As layers are the key to success for an English summer’s day, a blazer is a good place to start. Try J.Crew’s Campbell blazer in linen in a classic navy or red, perfect for the old-school prep of Cambridge. The classic Cambridge satchel will complement the blazer’s scholastic feel, while the linen makes it a more casual, summery alternative to a wool one.

The Skirt

Again treading the line between preppy and casual, this Tommy Hilfiger skirt has just enough collegiate style to pair with the classic blazer and satchel but doesn’t look too prep-school-uniform-y. It’s long enough to wear on a bike, while the stretch makes it comfortable to sit in the punt with your pint. Casual, cool, Cambridge.

The Shirt

So far you’ve played it safe with your classic preppy look for the ancient scholastic town, but add a little drama with a twist on the classic white blouse. Perfect for that finicky British Summer weather, this Zara blouse can be worn several ways. Try it with the sleeves long and an over-the-shoulder neckline (it has extra straps that makes this possible). If the sun comes out and it’s one of those rare warm days, eschew the sleeves altogether and wrap them around the front for a fun take on the classic blouse. Layers ✔️ Drama ✔️

The Shoes

You can expect to do a lot of walking in Cambridge. You’ll walk along the river, wander through Jesus Green and Parker’s Piece and maybe along the Backs. You’ll wander through the center, admiring the colleges and you’ll wander from pub to pub. When you’re not walking, you’ll probably be cycling, so comfortable, flat shoes are a must. This classic loafer from Trotters finishes off the preppy look, all while being versatile and comfortable.

The Dress (for the Night on the Town)

When it’s time to head to Six, make a quick transformation into this feminine frock from Jack Wills. A classic style, this dress can be paired with the same shoes, blazer, and satchel worn during the day, making for a quick and easy change for dinner and drinks. The pleats keep it preppy while the blue can be paired with the red blazer or the pale pink can be paired with the navy.